For athletes, even small injuries can be debilitating. Damaged bones and muscles often require several weeks (possibly months) of healing and conditioning before they regain the strength, flexibility, and range of motion required for competition. Because recovery requires input from so many different providers, including doctors, trainers, and physical therapists, it’s rarely a linear process. Time away can also weaken the athlete’s skill, further delaying their return.
Fortunately, research into Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMF) has provided athletes with tools to help accelerate their recovery. PEMF therapy is an established treatment finally emerging into widespread use, which applies intermittent waves of magnetic energy to injured limbs and body parts. Because our cells communicate through bioelectric signals, our bodies are highly responsive to electric and electromagnetic stimulation. As a result, areas targeted by PEMF show increased cellular activity, allowing them to grow and carry out basic functions faster and more effectively.
Impact of PEMF on Athletic Recovery
PEMF is a complementary therapy that aids athletic recovery in several ways. Though it’s always important to consult a physician before starting any type of medical treatment, PEMF is a noninvasive procedure with few side effects. While research into PEMF is still ongoing, the most common benefits are:
- Enhanced Cellular Repair. PEMF speeds up cellular respiration, the process by which your body transforms nutrients into energy. This allows cells to grow and multiply at a faster rate, which helps bones, muscles, and ligaments heal more quickly.
- Reduced Inflammation. Exposure to pulsed electromagnetic fields increases production of anti-inflammatory compounds such as cytokine. Alleviating swelling also decreases pain, making it possible for athletes to engage in conditioning exercises aimed at restoring their strength, motion, balance, endurance, and flexibility.
- Improved Circulation. In addition to promoting cellular respiration, PEMF also widens blood vessels (a process known as vasodilation), thereby increasing the flow of oxygen and nutrients ‒ the fuel necessary for tissue regeneration.
- Bone Healing. Studies suggest that PEMF stimulates osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation and growth. It also increases the rate of calcium absorption, further reducing the time needed to heal fractures.
When combined with traditional recovery techniques, such as resistance training, PEMF helps athletes regain their overall fitness and return to play as quickly as possible. A case study from one of our Aura Wellness centers demonstrates the benefits of this complementary approach.
Case Study: Right Thumb Fracture
Aura Wellness was approached by Andrew, a high-school goalkeeper who had broken his thumb playing soccer. Despite weeks of therapy, he was still suffering from pain, stiffness, swelling, and hypomobility (restricted joint movement). To help restore full function, we introduced Andrew to Aura Wellness PEMF.
Each Aura Wellness session lasted twenty minutes and was preceded by three minutes of red light therapy. Manual therapy was also performed, including soft tissue massage and grade III mobilizations of the carpometacarpal (CMC), metacarpophalangeal (MCP), and interphalangeal (IP) joints, with passive and active range of motion exercises.
Significant improvements were noticeable after only one session. Andrew’s active and passive range of motion increased, while his pain at rest decreased. The CMC and MCP joints improved 50 percent, while the IP joint improved 20 percent. After his second visit, Andrew had regained full mobility in his CMC and MCP joints, with an additional 30 percent improvement in the IP joint.
During his third visit, the combination of PEMF and aggressive mobilization therapy allowed Andrew to perform intense range of motion exercises, which led to considerable relief and opened the way for more significant gains in his recovery.
Regain Full Functionality with Aura Wellness
For athletes, returning from an injury can be a long, difficult, and frustrating process. But by augmenting traditional therapy with Aura Wellness PEMF, athletes can achieve better results and faster recovery. Aura Wellness enhances your body’s natural healing mechanisms, allowing you to successfully recuperate and resume sporting activities in as little time as possible. Experience the transformative benefits of PEMF by contacting your local Aura Wellness practitioner today!
